A kite-flying themed performance event opens on April 17 in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, as a part of the 38th Weifang International Kite Festival. [Photo/WeChat account: wfnews001]

The 38th Weifang International Kite Festival opened in Weifang, East China's Shandong province on April 17, with a series of kite-flying competitions and traditional kite culture promotional activities.

Accordingly, 500 kite-flying hobbyists on 118 teams from across the country will show off 1,628 kites in various shapes during the event.

Weifang, the birthplace of kites, has held the kite festival annually since 1984, attracting competitors and tourists from around the world. Weifang kites, a traditional handicraft treasure in the city, was named a national intangible cultural heritage in 2006.

"The international kite festival has narrowed the distance between Weifang and the world," said Tian Qingying, Weifang Party secretary, at the opening ceremony. "With nearly 40 years of development, the event has become a featured international cultural and sports event and also an important platform to promote international exchanges and cooperation."

Tian also added that this year's event will focus on connection with the world to expand exchanges and cooperation with foreign countries.

Kites of all kinds take to the sky during the 38th International Kite Festival in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, on April 17. [Photo/WeChat account: wfnews001]

A huge dragon-shaped kite is ready to launch at the kite festival in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, on April 17. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The kite festival draws kite international enthusiasts in Weifang, East China's Shandong province. [Photo/WeChat account: wfnews001]

Kite enthusiasts prepare to fly their kites during the kite festival in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, on April 17. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Octopus and squid-shaped kites fly against a clear blue sky at the kite festival in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, on April 17. [Photo/WeChat account: wfnews001]